Smith, a Ridgewood, N.J., resident, has a long association with Hurley, who is entering his second season at Wagner. Smith spent six years as a Hurley assistant at St. Benedict’s Prep in Newark.

"We’ve known each other since back when I was playing at Seton Hall," Hurley said of the two-decade friendship with Smith, who also spent time as an assistant at Bergen County College and Kean University. "Scott did a great job for us as the director of ops, and I know he’s excited about getting back into the coaching end."

Wagner has yet to make a decision on the director of basketball operations vacancy.

"I’ve spoken to some impressive candidates, but there’s no reason to rush," said the second-year head coach, whose club opens its season Nov. 12 against Princeton.

Wagner finished 13-17 in 2010-11, and went 9-9, good for sixth place in the Northeast Conference.